Killarney steps forward with urban design framework

9 September 2021

Killarney steps forward with urban design framework

The rich history and natural beauty of Killarney will be celebrated after the town was selected as the next in line to be included in the Southern Downs Regional Council’s Urban Design Framework (UDF) program at yesterday’s Ordinary Meeting.

Following in the footsteps of Wallangarra, Leyburn, Maryvale, Dalveen and Pratten, Killarney’s framework will consider how to support industry and tourism growth in line with the town’s unique character and location.

Small towns advocate, Southern Downs Councillor Sheryl Windle said Killarney’s UDF would play to its strengths and build on its existing tourism clout and country charm.

“Our region is home to some very special towns with unique appeal only found on the Southern Downs,” Councillor Windle said.

“Killarney has already positioned itself as a must-see location through its gorgeous nature walks, key tourism events and country charm and a strategic UDF will pivot from these qualities.

“With Killarney’s proximity to South East Queensland and the News South Wales border, the town is also well positioned to see growth in the transport and logistics, and agriculture sectors and for those seeking a tree change.

“Council will collaborate with the proud Killarney community to capture its vision for the future.”

As part of the Shaping Southern Downs strategic plan, the region’s UDFs provide direction on urban design and recommend projects that will protect and enhance the liveability, identity and landscape of a community.

In completing UDFs across the region, Council has previously secured funding through both Queensland and Australian Governments, including the following programs:

• Building Better Regions Fund, Australian Government (Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications)
• Drought Communities Programme, Australian Government (Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications)
• Works for Queensland, Queensland Government (Department of State Development, Infrastructure, Local Government & Planning)
• Queensland Disaster Relief and Recovery, Queensland Government (Queensland Reconstruction Authority)
• Southern Downs Regional Council, Community Grants and capital works budgets.

Killarney’s UDF will be completed in the 2021/22 financial year and dates for public consultation will be announced in the coming months.